~Dodd (of Skiddaw)~
13th June 2014
View from Dodd
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk....
Permissive Footpath
Arrival day walks are generally short and feature lower altitude fells. Despite Dodd's prominent position in front of Skiddaw, this will be the first time I've climbed it directly. Parking is available at the "Osprey View" car park if you have enough coins, or go a little further along the A591 towards Bassenthwaite Village and you will find a couple of parking places. Then the permissive footpath will help you back to the start of the Skill Beck ascent.
A591 Moth Infestation
The ermine moth has made its mark on these tress along the A591.
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If you like walking uphill on a steep tarmac track for about 30 minutes, then this is the walk for you. Views include trees and then more trees. These are not random trees, they have all been carefully planted.
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Long Doors |
View to Keswick |
Walkers for Dodd need to turn right at Long Doors, the track then takes walkers to the top, via some changes in direction. Whilst I read all Wainwright chapters before, during or after a walk - this one is particularly subject to change, due to forrestry operations.
Molly on top of Dodd, 1612ft asl
Dodd, being under the auspicies of the Forestry Commission has a few modern memorials, the sort of stuff you won't find on most Lakeland fells. This summit slate contains two.
Dodd and Derwentwater
The open view now available is no doubt "simply glorious" as predicted by AW, but not really at its best on this hazy evening.
St.John's Church, Keswick
Zooming in on Keswick from the top of Dodd.
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Our descent route too us along the southern face of Dodd and through some mature woodlands, with good views to the "north-western" fells.
Bassenthwaite Lake Sunset
An enjoyable walk of five miles, route cannot be specifically described as I don't even know myself exactly how we got back to the main car park. 2hrs 20mins with no greetings.
I am keen to point out that other Dodds are available close to other mountains.
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2014 ©
Take me back to the start ....